v. (ies, ied)1 make an effort with a view to success (often foll. by to + infin.; colloq. foll. by and + infin.: tried to be on time; try and be early). 2 make an effort to achieve (tried my best). 3 a test by use or experiment. b test the qualities of. 4 make severe demands on (tries my patience). S examine the effectiveness of for a purpose (try cold water; have you tried kicking it?). 6 ascertain the state of fastening of (a door, window, etc.). 7 a investigate and decide (a case or issue) judicially. b (often foll. by for) subject (a
